Whispers of the hungry

Malnutrition in Mauritania 

Year: 2011-2014 

Two billion people in the world suffer from various forms of malnutrition. Malnutrition is an underlying cause of death of 2.6 million children each year – a third of child deaths globally. 

Despite Mauritania's richness in its natural resources, with the fishing industry, iron ore, and gold deposits playing pivotal roles in the economic landscape, alongside the country's Atlantic coastline providing rich fishing grounds, malnutrition remains a critical challenge. It is exacerbated by recurring droughts, food insecurity, corruption and widespread poverty, impacting a significant portion of the population. This impact is particularly felt by children under five who suffer from stunting, wasting, and micronutrient deficiencies that hinder their growth and development. Additionally, the country's reliance on subsistence agriculture and pastoralism makes it vulnerable to climate change, further complicating efforts to ensure adequate nutrition. Governmental and international initiatives strive to improve food availability, diversify diets, and strengthen health systems to address acute and chronic malnutrition. This emphasises the need for sustainable solutions and community-based interventions to enhance resilience and long-term food security for all Mauritanians.